What are the standard sugar syrup concentrations?

The three standard concentrations are: light syrup (1 part sugar to 3 parts water by weight, ~25% sugar), medium syrup (1:2, ~33% sugar), and heavy syrup (1:1, ~50% sugar). The concentration affects sweetness, viscosity, and how well the syrup preserves fruit.

What is each syrup concentration used for?

Light syrup is used for poaching delicate fruits, iced tea, and lighter cocktails. Medium syrup is the most versatile, used for bottling fruit, cocktails, and moistening cakes. Heavy syrup (simple syrup 1:1) is used for preserving fruit, strong cocktails, and candy-making.

How do I make sugar syrup?

Combine sugar and water in a saucepan. Heat gently, stirring until the sugar fully dissolves. Do not boil until the sugar is dissolved, or it may crystallise. Once dissolved, bring to a brief boil, then cool. Store in a clean bottle or jar.

How long does sugar syrup keep?

Light syrup keeps for 1-2 weeks in the refrigerator. Medium syrup keeps for 2-3 weeks refrigerated. Heavy syrup (1:1) has enough sugar to act as a preservative and can keep for 6 months or more in a sealed bottle in a cool, dark place.

Does sugar syrup increase in volume when sugar dissolves?

Yes, adding sugar to water increases the total volume because sugar occupies space when dissolved. Each gram of sugar adds approximately 0.6ml of volume. This calculator accounts for this, so the sugar and water quantities will produce your target volume of syrup.

BakeCalcs

Syrup Concentration Calculator

Calculate sugar and water quantities for light, medium, or heavy sugar syrup by target volume.

Target Syrup Volume

Concentration

How We Calculate This

This calculator works backwards from your target syrup volume to determine the sugar and water quantities needed. It accounts for the volume increase that occurs when sugar dissolves in water (approximately 0.6ml per gram of sugar).

Concentrations (sugar:water by weight)

Light: 1:3 (~25% sugar)
Medium: 1:2 (~33% sugar)
Heavy: 1:1 (~50% sugar)

Volume Calculation

Sugar adds ~0.6ml per gram when dissolved
Water volume + (sugar weight x 0.6) = target volume

Frequently Asked Questions

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Last updated: February 2026

All calculations are based on standard ratios and conversions. Results may vary with specific ingredients, equipment, and conditions.